After playing only two matches for Zimbabwe at 2017 COSAFA Castle Cup in South Africa, winger Leeroy Mavunga left for Portugal on Thursday where he will attend trials at Portuguese giants Benfica.

The 18-year-old has been given the opportunity after starring for his current club, Yadah FC.

Wellington Mpandare, the Warriors’ team manager, said they were aware of the arrangement before tournament and he left with their blessing.

“He flew out of South Africa yesterday. He will be going for trials in Portugal but they didn’t specify the period. We were fully aware of this arrangement prior the tournament and we were hoping that he finishes the COSAFA assignment,” Mpandare said.

“Initially he was supposed to go to Real Madrid academy, but we wish him the best. We have enough cover for that position here and all is well in camp.”

Another Zimbabwean forward Prince Dube will not be returning to Highlanders after the COSAFA Castle Cup here in South Africa.

Dube, who is yet to feature at the tournament, is the Castle Lager Premiership second top goal scorer this season.

He is linked with three South African clubs, with Ajax Cape Town topping the list.